Claim
Several social media posts have claimed that the Union government is planning to create a new Union Territory along the Bihar–West Bengal border, particularly in the region near the Siliguri Corridor.
Verdict
The claim is false.
What Factcheck India Investigation Found?
According to Factcheck India, posts claiming that a new Union Territory will be created from parts of Bihar and West Bengal are baseless and misleading. The government stated clearly that there is no proposal or plan being considered to carve out a new Union Territory in the region. The PIB fact-check team labelled the circulating claim as “fake” and warned users against spreading unverified information. India’s official fact-checking agency, the Press Information Bureau (PIB), has dismissed the viral claim and clarified that no such proposal is currently under consideration by the government. The clarification was issued by the Press Information Bureau Fact Check Unit, which monitors and debunks misleading information circulating online.
Why the Claim Spread
The rumour appears to have gained traction because of the strategic importance of the Siliguri Corridor, often referred to as the “Chicken’s Neck”, which connects mainland India with the northeastern states. Due to its geopolitical and logistical significance, the region frequently becomes the subject of speculation or misinformation on social media. However, no official announcement or policy proposal supporting the claim has been made by the government.
Factcheck India’s Advisory to Citizens
Authorities have urged citizens to exercise caution when sharing information online.
Factcheck India advises people to:
- Verify information through official government sources
- Avoid forwarding unverified claims on social media
- Check updates from Factcheck India for confirmed announcements
Such measures, officials say, are essential to prevent the spread of misinformation.
Conclusion
False. The claim that the government plans to create a new Union Territory along the Bihar–West Bengal border near the Siliguri Corridor is incorrect. Factcheck India confirms that no such proposal is under consideration by the government.